With the Participation of Over 300 Specialized Volunteers The Ministry of Community Empowerment and Emirates Foundation Organize a Volunteering Initiative Entitled “Community-Inspired Schools”

• The event was attended by senior officials, social leaders, and media figures.
• The initiative is part of “7 Over 7” a national campaign promoting volunteerism, belonging, and positive citizenship.

The Ministry of Community Empowerment, in collaboration with Emirates Foundation through the Volunteers.ae platform and several local partners in Sharjah, launched the first volunteering event entitled “Community-Inspired Schools.” The event took place at Al Ahlia Charity Private School in Samnan, Sharjah, as part of the “7 Over 7” initiative; one of eight national initiatives launched under the Volunteering and Community Engagement Framework.

The initiative aims to organize a series of volunteer events across all seven emirates to strengthen the culture of volunteerism and reinforce values of belonging and positive citizenship. It seeks to empower individuals and institutions to actively participate in developing their local communities. The event was attended by H.E. Aisha Yousuf, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Community Empowerment, H.E. Ahmed Talib Al Shamsi, CEO of Emirates Foundation along with several leaders, social pioneers, media representatives, and content creators.

The “Community-Inspired Schools” initiative focused on improving the school environment and transforming it into a vibrant, inspiring, and inclusive space. More than 300 volunteers including engineers, teachers, artists, and specialists in agriculture and environmental design participated in activities such as painting, landscaping, and creating wall art to enhance the school’s appearance and make it a more engaging and supportive learning environment. The event also strengthened social bonds by encouraging parents and volunteers to collaborate in redesigning and beautifying the educational space, creating a more positive atmosphere for students.

Running from late October to December 2025, the “7 Over 7” initiative seeks to promote national identity, a sense of belonging, and shared social responsibility, while fostering creativity and innovation. It is being implemented in partnership with government entities, the private sector, and non-profit organizations.

Activities under the initiative include “Dialogue Sessions for University Students” in collaboration with several universities in Abu Dhabi namely the Higher Colleges of Technology, Zayed University, and the United Arab Emirates University. These sessions offer students the opportunity to meet directly with volunteer leaders and experts in one-on-one discussions focused on career guidance, knowledge exchange, and developing awareness of future career pathways.

Other volunteering opportunities include celebrating UAE Flag Day through an art session with People of Determination at Kite Beach in Dubai, showcasing their creative talents in an accompanying art exhibition. Additionally, free medical check-ups for labor workers will be provided in collaboration with Khalifa Medical City in Ajman, reflecting the UAE’s humanitarian values as a global capital of compassion and care for all its residents.

Further activities involve volunteers working alongside local fishermen in Ras Al Khaimah to repair boats and clean coastal areas, helping preserve maritime heritage and revive traditional crafts. In Umm Al Quwain, volunteers will beautify Al Bayt Mitwahid walkway, a popular family destination, by painting walls, cleaning green spaces, and adding aesthetic touches to public facilities. Meanwhile, in Dibba Al Fujairah, certified divers and marine experts will collaborate to plant coral reefs and remove marine debris, while underwater photographers document the environmental impact of the initiative.

The Ministry will announce upcoming volunteering events open to the public through its social media channels @moceuae. Interested participants can register via the Volunteers.ae platform at www.volunteers.ae/sevenoverseven